What Causes Bad Breath?

Bad breath is one of the most preventable dental problems, but it can be the most embarrassing one as well. This smelly problem can have a significant effect on your confidence. If you have bad breath, you may find it very hard to maintain a thriving social, personal, and professional life because it is difficult to deal with other people when you know that your breath smells foul.

Do you know what causes bad breath? A variety of factors contribute to the development of bad breath, and knowing what these factors are can help you keep your breath smelling fresh.

Causes of Bad Breath

Poor Dental Hygiene – If you do not practise good oral hygiene, you have a higher risk of developing bad breath. Regular tooth brushing and using dental floss removes pieces of food which may be left inside the mouth after eating. If these food pieces are not removed, they can contribute to plaque build-up, which can cause bad breath.

Food with Strong Odours – Bad breath can be caused by food items that have a strong odour, such as garlic, onions, cheese, and spices. The smell from eating these foods can stay in the mouth for a long period of time, causing foul-smelling breath.

Smoking or Tobacco Use – The chemicals present in cigarettes and tobacco products can be left behind in the mouth, causing bad breath.

Dry Mouth – A dry mouth causes bacteria to multiply inside the mouth, leading to the development of bad breath problems.